Greek-American Voices in California Elections 2026: Eleni Kounalakis and Angie Christides
By the Hellenic Los Angeles Media Network Editorial Team
October 14, 2026 | Los Angeles, California
Two Greek-American-connected professionals, two different paths in California public life: a statewide race for financial leadership and a judicial campaign in Los Angeles County
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LOS ANGELES, California — Greek-American participation in American public life remains an important part of the wider story of the Greek diaspora. During California's 2026 election cycle, two women have drawn attention: Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, who is running for State Treasurer, and Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney Angie Christides, who competed in a judicial primary earlier this year.
Although their races differ in scope and status, their candidacies highlight the ways Greek-American professionals participate in public service, state government and the justice system.
The Hellenic Los Angeles Media Network presents this special report on their professional backgrounds, the offices involved and their place in California's political landscape.
Eleni Kounalakis: A Candidate for California State Treasurer
Eleni Kounalakis
California Lieutenant Governor and Democratic candidate for State Treasurer
Eleni Kounalakis, California's current Lieutenant Governor, is a prominent public official with Greek-American roots. She was elected Lieutenant Governor in 2018 and reelected in 2022. Before entering statewide elected office, she served as the United States Ambassador to Hungary.
Her candidacy for State Treasurer places her in a contest for an office responsible for important aspects of California's public financial management.
What Does the State Treasurer Do?
The California State Treasurer oversees state investments, manages the issuance of bonds and supports the financing of public projects. These responsibilities can affect infrastructure, housing, schools and other public priorities.
Kounalakis is seeking the office in the November 3, 2026, general election. Her Republican opponent is Jennifer Hawks. Voters will decide which candidate should lead the state's financial operations and investment responsibilities.
For Greek-American communities in Los Angeles and across California, Kounalakis's candidacy is a notable example of Greek-American participation in statewide government.
Election information: California Secretary of State
Angie Christides: A Judicial Candidate in Los Angeles County
Angie Christides
Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney and former Superior Court judicial candidate
Angie Christides, a Deputy District Attorney with Los Angeles County, ran for Judge of the Los Angeles County Superior Court in the June 2, 2026, primary election.
Her professional career includes prosecutorial experience, and her campaign highlighted courtroom experience, public trust in the justice system and access to justice.
Christides competed against Irene Lee for Superior Court Office No. 14. According to the election results cited for this report, Lee received 56.91% of the vote, while Christides received 43.09%.
Christides did not advance to the November general election in this judicial contest. Her candidacy is included here as part of the broader 2026 election cycle, not as a candidate on the November ballot.
Why Judicial Elections Matter
Judges play a central role in the administration of justice. They oversee court proceedings, interpret and apply the law, and ensure that legal disputes are handled according to established procedures.
Judicial elections give voters an opportunity to evaluate candidates' professional experience, qualifications and approach to the responsibilities of the bench.
Christides's campaign highlighted the importance of experienced legal professionals in public service and brought attention to participation in California's legal community.
Official results: Los Angeles County Election Results
Two Different Races, One Broader Story of Public Service
Kounalakis and Christides participated in different areas of California public life. Kounalakis is competing for a statewide executive office responsible for public financial management, while Christides sought a judicial position in Los Angeles County.
Their experiences illustrate that Greek-American participation in public life extends beyond a single office or level of government.
It is important to distinguish verified biographical information from assumptions about ancestry. This report focuses on the candidates' professional careers, election participation and public roles.
The Greek-American Community in California
Greek-American communities have contributed to California's cultural, professional, business and civic life for generations. Participation in elections and public service is one way members of the diaspora engage with the institutions that shape their communities.
For Greek-American readers, following candidates and officeholders can provide a clearer understanding of state policy, public finances, the justice system and the political environment in which their communities live and work.
The Hellenic Los Angeles Media Network will continue to follow election developments and highlight verified information about Greek-American participation in American public life.
Our aim is to provide accurate, balanced reporting that distinguishes active campaigns from completed election contests and presents candidates' records in their proper context.
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Editorial note: This report reflects election information cited as of October 14, 2026. Kounalakis's candidacy concerns the November 3 statewide election. Christides's candidacy concerns the June 2 judicial primary, in which she did not advance. Readers should consult official California and Los Angeles County election records for final details.
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